President John Dramani Mahama has renewed Ghana’s call for the African Union (AU) to formally address the growing incidents of xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals in South Africa, warning that ignoring the issue will not resolve its underlying causes.
Speaking during bilateral talks on the sidelines of the AU Extraordinary Summit in Accra, President Mahama said AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf had acknowledged the need to place the matter on the agenda of the next AU Summit. He stressed that while Ghana holds no ill will towards South Africa, the attacks and the resulting loss of lives, property and investments undermine African solidarity and efforts towards continental integration.
The President said discussing the issue at the AU level would provide South Africa with an opportunity to present its perspective while enabling member states to work collectively towards lasting solutions. He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to promoting unity across the continent and protecting the dignity, safety and investments of all Africans.